I recently did a re-install with Xubuntu 11.10. Only problem is the wireless keeps dropping out (a shame since it detected my USB modem). Since there were no problem with 11.04 (running from USB) I decided I'd re-install with 11.04.
Attempt 1: I didn't reformat any partitions before attempting the 'something else' installation. I didn't click 'format' for my /home partition. "Installer crashed". ... Being a complete newbie (I used to have someone do all of this for me so this is only my 2nd install this year) I thought that it might have something to do with not re-formating the /home partition. Thus I restarted the machine and commenced attempt #2
Attempt 2: I clicked 'format' for /home but again the installer crashed. The point of installation was "Checking for packages to remove..." So, I decided to reboot and running off USB I used GParted to delete each partition and reformat (a single partition Attempt 3: Again the "Installer crashed" at "Checking for packages to remove..."
On each occassion I collected the /var/log/syslog and /var/log/partman files.
I'm thinking I'll change the partitions so that they don't reflect the location of the 11.10 install. Fingers crossed :/
attempt 1 "partman" file